2008 BMW 318 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 36 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 165 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 318 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 318 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |