2009 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Vector M12
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 2009 BMW 520. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Vector M12 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 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, 1997 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 520. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 520 | 1997 Vector M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Vector |
| Model | 520 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2750 mm |
