1991 BMW M12 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2011 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 520.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 520. (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 520. 2011 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW M12 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M12 | 520 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 296 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2968 mm |