1986 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Rover 45

To start off, 2003 Rover 45 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Rover 45. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2003 Rover 45. 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 Rover 45, 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, 1986 BMW 325 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Rover 45. (123 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Rover 45.

Compare all specifications:

1986 BMW 325 2003 Rover 45
Make BMW Rover
Model 325 45
Year Released 1986 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2493 cc 1396 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 171 HP 102 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 226 Nm 123 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1255 kg 1110 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 54 L