1981 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1610 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 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | C |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |