1972 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 135 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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | A |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
