1972 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 37 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | GL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.3 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
