1998 BMW 325 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 131 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 325. 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, 2009 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2009 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
