2005 BMW 525 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1981 BMW 745.
Because 2005 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 745. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 525. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 745 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 745 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 525 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 745 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
