1981 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2006 Toyota Matrix 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 135 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, 2006 Toyota Matrix, 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, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2006 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 520 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
