2004 BMW 325 vs. 1981 BMW 725
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (116 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325.
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, 2004 BMW 325 (222 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 1981 BMW 725 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
