1972 BMW 520 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Iltis is newer by 5 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Volkswagen Iltis 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, 1977 Volkswagen Iltis 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 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1977 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2110 mm |
