1972 BMW 520 vs. 2010 BMW 335
To start off, 2010 BMW 335 is newer by 38 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 335 weights approximately 260 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 2010 BMW 335 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW 335 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, 2010 BMW 335 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2010 BMW 335 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
