1981 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Opel Zafira 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Zafira (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Zafira weights approximately 320 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 Opel Zafira, 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 Opel Zafira (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2004 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
