1986 BMW 325 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 23 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 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 330 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
