1978 BMW 520 vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 33 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 535 weights approximately 435 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.
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, 2011 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2011 BMW 535 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. 2011 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2011 BMW 535 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 520 | 535 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4999 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3071 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 8.1 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |