1972 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 34 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, 2006 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 220 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, 2006 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2006 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2006 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2006 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2006 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 520 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| 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 | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
