1977 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 35 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 134 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1265 kg more than 1977 BMW 520.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 14.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |
