2008 BMW 120 vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120. 2008 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
