1987 BMW 320 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (225 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1987 BMW 320. (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 542 kg more than 1987 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
