2009 BMW 325 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 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, 2009 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 325 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 325 | 520 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1220 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 | 63 L | 70 L |