2001 BMW 318 vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 525 (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1983 BMW 525.
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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
