1975 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 440 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 1975 BMW 520 (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1975 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |
