1972 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 740 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 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
