1996 BMW 325 vs. 1981 BMW 525
To start off, 1996 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 325 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 325 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 325 | 1981 BMW 525 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 325 | 525 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 71.6 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |