1995 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 525 weights approximately 303 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 525. (285 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 525 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3410 mm |
