1972 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (500 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 93 L |
