1996 BMW 725 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2009 BMW 525.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 725. 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, 1996 BMW 725 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2890 mm |
