2005 BMW 325 vs. 1981 BMW 725
To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 24 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 2005 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 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, 2005 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 325 | 1981 BMW 725 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
