1972 BMW 520 vs. 1959 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 12 M 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 113 more horse power than 1959 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 12 M.
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 | 1959 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
