1972 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G 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 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1050 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G 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 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 BMW 520 2005 Mercedes-Benz G
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 520 G
Year Released 1972 2005
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 2685 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 88.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 172 km/hour 157 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.3 seconds 13.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1230 kg 2280 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1940 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 96 L