1981 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 1997 Toyota Avensis is newer by 16 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Avensis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Avensis, 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, 1997 Toyota Avensis (203 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Avensis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1997 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 520 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
