2009 BMW M3 vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 26 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2691 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
