2009 Acura TL vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Acura TL is newer by 28 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 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TL weights approximately 632 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 1981 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2009 Acura TL 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. 2009 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Acura TL | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | Acura | BMW |
Model | TL | 520 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 280 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |