1972 BMW 520 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | GTI |
Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1412 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1779 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1469 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.3 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |