1978 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia is newer by 30 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Insignia (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Insignia, 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, 2008 Opel Insignia (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2008 Opel Insignia | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 520 | Insignia |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1856 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1498 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2737 mm |