1972 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Audi S5
To start off, 2011 Audi S5 is newer by 39 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), 2011 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S5 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S5 weights approximately 725 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 2011 Audi S5 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, 2011 Audi S5 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, 2011 Audi S5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2011 Audi S5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 520 | S5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
