1972 BMW 520 vs. 1988 Citroen CX
To start off, 1988 Citroen CX is newer by 16 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Citroen CX (137 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Citroen CX weights approximately 190 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.
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, 1988 Citroen CX, 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, 1988 Citroen CX (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1988 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 1988 Citroen CX | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 520 | CX |
Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 137 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3100 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |