1972 BMW 520 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 26 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1998 Volvo S80.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
