1981 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Montero
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Montero 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 3,828 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Montero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Montero (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Montero should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Montero weights approximately 920 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 2004 Mitsubishi Montero 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Montero 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Montero (336 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Montero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2004 Mitsubishi Montero 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 Mitsubishi Montero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2004 Mitsubishi Montero | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 520 | Montero |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3828 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
