1988 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525.
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 Scion tC, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion tC. (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | 525 | tC |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
