1977 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Impala

To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 28 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 3,343 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (181 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 227 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.

Because 1977 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520. 2005 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1977 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1977 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 BMW 520 2005 Chevrolet Impala
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 520 Impala
Year Released 1977 2005
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1990 cc 3343 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 181 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 278 Nm
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 91 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 6 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1537 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 5090 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2880 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 64 L