1999 BMW 529 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 1999 BMW 529 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1999 BMW 529. (193 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 529. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 529 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1981 BMW 745.
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, 1999 BMW 529 (410 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 745. (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 529 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 745. 1981 BMW 745 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 529 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 529 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 BMW 745 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 529 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 529 | 745 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
