1981 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2008 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 27 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Wrangler (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 640 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 2008 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Jeep Wrangler (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2008 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | BMW | Jeep |
| Model | 520 | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 82 L |
