1981 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Proton Gen
To start off, 2007 Proton Gen is newer by 26 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 14 more horse power than 2007 Proton Gen. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2007 Proton Gen.
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, 2007 Proton Gen, 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Proton Gen. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Proton Gen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2007 Proton Gen | |
| Make | BMW | Proton |
| Model | 520 | Gen |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
