2004 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 326 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 525 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 525. (237 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
