1972 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Lexus ES
To start off, 2005 Lexus ES is newer by 33 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus ES (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus ES weights approximately 330 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, 2005 Lexus ES, 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, 2005 Lexus ES (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2005 Lexus ES 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. 2005 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2005 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 520 | ES |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
