1972 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 84 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
