1981 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Nissan GT-R
To start off, 2012 Nissan GT-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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan GT-R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan GT-R (530 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 407 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan GT-R should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan GT-R weights approximately 517 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 2012 Nissan GT-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 Nissan GT-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 Nissan GT-R (607 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 437 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan GT-R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2012 Nissan GT-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 Nissan GT-R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2012 Nissan GT-R | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 520 | GT-R |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 530 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 607 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1737 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4671 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2779 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 74 L |
