1981 BMW 520 vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 17 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, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 317 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
