2006 BMW 525 vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2006 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 3453 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 116 L |
