1985 BMW 316 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 1985 BMW 316 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1985 BMW 316. 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
