1988 BMW 520 vs. 1972 Lotus 72
To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Lotus 72. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Lotus 72 would be higher. At 2,992 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Lotus 72 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Lotus 72 (444 HP @ 10000 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Lotus 72 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1972 Lotus 72.
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. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1972 Lotus 72 has manual transmission. 1972 Lotus 72 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1972 Lotus 72 | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 520 | 72 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 10000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 550 kg |
