1972 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 34 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 13 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.
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, 2006 Volvo S40, 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | S40 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 6.8 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 | 1458 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |