1972 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2001 Vauxhall Astra 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. 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, 2001 Vauxhall Astra, 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 Vauxhall Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2001 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
