1972 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 30 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 720 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 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
