1992 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 20 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 822 kg more than 1992 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 520 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
