1972 BMW 520 vs. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136.
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:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 136 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | W 136 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1954 |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 720 kg |
