1988 BMW 525 vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 20 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1988 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
