1981 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Micra 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, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Micra weights approximately 222 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
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, 2009 Nissan Micra, 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2009 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 520 | Micra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1386 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |
