1996 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (120 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2012 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1151 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
