1978 BMW 520 vs. 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo
To start off, 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo (183 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo (305 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 1986 Maserati Bi Turbo | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 520 | Bi Turbo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
