1972 BMW 520 vs. 1976 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1972 BMW 520 (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 520 | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 1940 mm |
