1999 BMW X5 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW X5 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW X5 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 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, 1999 BMW X5 (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW X5 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
