1972 BMW 520 vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 305 is newer by 6 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 @ 5900 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305. 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, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (132 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 520 | 305 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1548 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2750 mm |
