1991 BMW M12 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525. 2009 BMW 525 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. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
