2006 BMW X3 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 34 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 605 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 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
