1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | AR 51 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1884 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2770 mm |
