1972 BMW 520 vs. 2013 Smart Fortwo
To start off, 2013 Smart Fortwo is newer by 41 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2013 Smart Fortwo.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Smart Fortwo. 2013 Smart Fortwo 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. 2013 Smart Fortwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2013 Smart Fortwo | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 520 | Fortwo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
