2009 BMW 525 vs. 1998 BMW M
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1998 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
