1981 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Octavia 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Skoda Octavia. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 75 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
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 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2004 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 520 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
