1972 BMW 520 vs. 1969 Cadillac Calais
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Cadillac Calais. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Cadillac Calais would be higher. At 7,734 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Cadillac Calais is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Cadillac Calais (228 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Cadillac Calais should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Cadillac Calais weights approximately 630 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Cadillac Calais, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Cadillac Calais (710 Nm) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm). This means 1969 Cadillac Calais will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1969 Cadillac Calais | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 520 | Calais |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 7734 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 710 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 109.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 103.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 82 L |
