1972 BMW 520 vs. 1959 Maserati 420
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 4,190 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Maserati 420 (405 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1959 Maserati 420.
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 Maserati 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 520 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 405 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
