1972 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Venture
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Venture is newer by 32 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 3,343 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Venture is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Venture (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Venture should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Venture weights approximately 516 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 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, 2004 Chevrolet Venture, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Venture (285 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Venture will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2004 Chevrolet Venture | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Venture |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
