1972 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Vibe (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520.
Because 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2009 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 520 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 97.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
