1972 BMW 520 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 31 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 310 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 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
