1978 BMW 520 vs. 2010 Lexus RX
To start off, 2010 Lexus RX is newer by 32 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus RX weights approximately 225 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Lexus RX, 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, 2010 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2010 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 2010 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 520 | RX |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
