1977 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 31 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 810 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | R |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.7 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.8 L/100km | 19.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 16.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
