1996 BMW 318 vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 1996 BMW 318 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 525 (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1983 BMW 525.
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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
