2007 BMW 525 vs. 1981 Honda Ballade

To start off, 2007 BMW 525 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (175 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 875 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 BMW 525 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 525 1981 Honda Ballade
Make BMW Honda
Model 525 Ballade
Year Released 2007 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1334 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 67 HP
Torque 400 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 72 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.1 mm 82 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 785 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2330 mm