1988 BMW 525 vs. 2013 Scion FR-S
To start off, 2013 Scion FR-S is newer by 25 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, 2013 Scion FR-S (199 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Scion FR-S should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2013 Scion FR-S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Scion FR-S. (205 Nm @ 6600 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Scion FR-S. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2013 Scion FR-S has manual transmission. 2013 Scion FR-S 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 | 2013 Scion FR-S | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | 525 | FR-S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 199 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
