1972 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Mazda 2
To start off, 2011 Mazda 2 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 2. (95 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2011 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 2, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mazda 2 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2011 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |
