1972 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | A |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
