1972 BMW 520 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 355 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.

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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 BMW 520 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 520 S
Year Released 1972 1986
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 5547 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 150 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 422 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3750 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1800 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2950 mm


 

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