2001 BMW X5 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 BMW X5 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,619 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW X5 (329 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 BMW X5 (480 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2001 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW X5 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4619 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 70 L |
