1972 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Citroen C4

To start off, 2012 Citroen C4 is newer by 40 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2012 Citroen C4. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2012 Citroen C4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.

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, 2012 Citroen C4, 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, 2012 Citroen C4 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

1972 BMW 520 2012 Citroen C4
Make BMW Citroen
Model 520 C4
Year Released 1972 2012
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 150 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 11.0:1
Top Speed 211 km/hour 195 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.6 seconds 12.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1635 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.2 L/100km 8.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 60 L