1991 BMW M12 vs. 1981 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,041 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Holden Statesman. (169 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Statesman.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Statesman. (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Statesman. 1981 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1981 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | M12 | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 5041 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2900 mm |
