1972 BMW Turbo vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW Turbo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW Turbo would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 431 more horse power than 1972 BMW Turbo. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW Turbo.
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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm) has 503 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW Turbo. (177 Nm). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW Turbo. 2012 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW Turbo has manual transmission. 1972 BMW Turbo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW Turbo | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Turbo | M5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1455 mm |
