2006 BMW 130 vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 130 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2012 BMW 525. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 525.
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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 130. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 130.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 130 | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 130 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
