2005 BMW 530 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 530 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 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 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525. 2005 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 530 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 211 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 | 1770 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
