2000 BMW 323 vs. 1981 BMW 525
To start off, 2000 BMW 323 is newer by 19 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 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW 323 (326 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 323 weights approximately 330 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, 2000 BMW 323 (245 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm). This means 2000 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2000 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 323 | 1981 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
