1972 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 405 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1115 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 2012 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 534 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 4.7 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 Weight | 1230 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 105 L |
