2006 BMW 325 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 444 kg more than 1980 BMW M5.
Because 2006 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 325. (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3453 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
