1972 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Lexus LS
To start off, 2008 Lexus LS is newer by 36 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (389 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus LS weights approximately 1040 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 2008 Lexus LS 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, 2008 Lexus LS 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, 2008 Lexus LS (522 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2008 Lexus LS 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. 2008 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2008 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 520 | LS |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3100 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 84 L |
