1972 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Lancia Kappa

To start off, 1996 Lancia Kappa 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 2,451 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lancia Kappa (173 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 75 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 Lancia Kappa, 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 Lancia Kappa (230 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

1972 BMW 520 1996 Lancia Kappa
Make BMW Lancia
Model 520 Kappa
Year Released 1972 1996
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 2451 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 150 HP 173 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 83.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 90.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4700 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2710 mm