2008 BMW 328 vs. 1981 BMW 528
To start off, 2008 BMW 328 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 328 (231 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 328 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1981 BMW 528. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 1981 BMW 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328, 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, 2008 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 328 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 328 | 528 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2788 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 231 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |