1981 BMW 520 vs. 1992 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1992 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 11 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 4,291 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 675 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1992 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1992 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1992 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Astro |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
