1975 BMW 520 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 35 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 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 387 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 655 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.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 658 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1975 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1975 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1975 BMW 520 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | SL |
Year Released | 1975 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5512 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |