1978 BMW 320 vs. 2001 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 BMW 520 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 474 more horse power than 2001 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 520 weights approximately 830 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 2001 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
