2006 BMW 530 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 10 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), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 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 | 6600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 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 Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
