1972 Abarth 124 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 1978 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Abarth 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Abarth 124 would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1972 Abarth 124. (126 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1972 Abarth 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1972 Abarth 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Abarth 124. (157 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Abarth 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Abarth 124 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 124 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1754 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1670 kg |
