1972 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 224 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (226 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
