2004 BMW 325 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 325 (184 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 BMW 325.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 325. (237 Nm). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.1 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
