1981 BMW 520 vs. 1985 Lancia Delta

To start off, 1985 Lancia Delta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lancia Delta (251 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Delta should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 23 kg more than 1985 Lancia Delta.

Because 1985 Lancia Delta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Delta will offer significantly more control. 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, 1985 Lancia Delta (291 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Lancia Delta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 520 1985 Lancia Delta
Make BMW Lancia
Model 520 Delta
Year Released 1981 1985
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1991 cc 1759 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 251 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6750 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 291 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 88.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 71.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 7.6:1
Top Speed 185 km/hour 225 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1220 kg 1197 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2330 mm