1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. (105 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible weights approximately 5 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | BMW |
| Model | Sports Convertible | 520 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
