1986 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Acura CL
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 420 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2003 Acura CL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | 325 | CL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
