1977 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Peugeot 408 (147 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408 should accelerate faster 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 Peugeot 408, 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, 1977 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Peugeot 408. (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Peugeot 408. 2012 Peugeot 408 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 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 520 | 408 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
