1978 BMW 520 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 20 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 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Microbus |
Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2553 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1960 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |