1972 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Chevrolet APV
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet APV is newer by 24 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet APV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet APV (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet APV should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet APV weights approximately 385 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, 1996 Chevrolet APV, 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, 1996 Chevrolet APV (238 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet APV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 1996 Chevrolet APV 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. 1996 Chevrolet APV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1996 Chevrolet APV | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | APV |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2800 mm |
