1959 Ford Fairlane vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1959 Ford Fairlane. (168 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Fairlane.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford Fairlane | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Fairlane | 520 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5769 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4907 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2968 mm |
