1988 BMW 525 vs. 1989 Plymouth Laser

To start off, 1989 Plymouth Laser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1989 Plymouth Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 Plymouth Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Plymouth Laser, 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Plymouth Laser.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 525 1989 Plymouth Laser
Make BMW Plymouth
Model 525 Laser
Year Released 1988 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 133 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 239 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 5000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1230 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2480 mm