2007 BMW X3 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 35 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (268 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 370 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 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
