1972 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 206 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 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 Passat, 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 Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
