1972 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 2,606 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda BT-50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2011 Mazda BT-50. (123 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda BT-50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda BT-50 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
Because 2011 Mazda BT-50 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, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 Mazda BT-50 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 BT-50 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
