1981 BMW 520 vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1981 BMW 520 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
