1989 BMW 316 vs. 1981 BMW 725
To start off, 1989 BMW 316 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 316.
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, 1981 BMW 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 316 | 1981 BMW 725 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 725 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
