1972 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 25 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 760 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
