1988 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 24 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 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP) has 27 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic.

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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2012 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2012 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 525 2012 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model 525 Civic
Year Released 1988 2012
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2441 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 138 HP
Torque 239 Nm 174 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 87.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1785 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm