1981 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Acura TL
To start off, 1999 Acura TL is newer by 18 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura TL (226 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura TL weights approximately 355 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 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, 1999 Acura TL, 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, 1999 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 1999 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 1999 Acura TL | |
Make | BMW | Acura |
Model | 520 | TL |
Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 226 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 294 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1575 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |