1972 BMW 520 vs. 1988 Honda Civic
To start off, 1988 Honda Civic 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 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 61 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1988 Honda Civic | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 520 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
