1972 BMW 520 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1981 Volvo 240 is newer by 9 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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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, 1972 BMW 520 (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | 240 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2127 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |