1972 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
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 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, 2006 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2006 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
