1981 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Dodge Sprinter
To start off, 2009 Dodge Sprinter is newer by 28 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Sprinter weights approximately 471 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.
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, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (380 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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. 2009 Dodge Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2009 Dodge Sprinter | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 520 | Sprinter |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 6950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 2740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 4330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
