1981 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 31 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | R |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
