1972 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 215 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
