1981 BMW 520 vs. 2006 BMW M6
To start off, 2006 BMW M6 is newer by 25 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 5,000 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 BMW M6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M6 (507 HP) has 384 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M6 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 BMW M6 (705 Nm) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm). This means 2006 BMW M6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2006 BMW M6 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. 2006 BMW M6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2006 BMW M6 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | M6 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 507 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 705 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
