1998 BMW 317 vs. 1981 BMW 528
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | 528 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
