1992 BMW 520 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 520 weights approximately 103 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
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, 2011 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 520 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
