2001 BMW X5 vs. 1981 Porsche 944
To start off, 2001 BMW X5 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 4,619 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW X5 (329 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 835 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Porsche 944. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 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, 2001 BMW X5 (480 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW X5 | 1981 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | X5 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4619 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
