1977 BMW 520 vs. 2001 BMW 320
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1977 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, 2001 BMW 320 (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2001 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
