1988 BMW 524 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 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 112 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. 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 1988 BMW 524. 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 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 524 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
