1972 BMW 520 vs. 1987 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1987 Ford Taurus is newer by 15 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 25 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
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, 1987 Ford Taurus, 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1987 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
