1972 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 580 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 610 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | SL |
Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |