1981 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Ford Freestar
To start off, 2004 Ford Freestar is newer by 23 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Freestar (202 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Freestar weights approximately 719 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, 2004 Ford Freestar, 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, 2004 Ford Freestar (357 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2004 Ford Freestar 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. 2004 Ford Freestar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2004 Ford Freestar | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 520 | Freestar |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 202 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 357 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1939 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3070 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 98 L |