1972 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Volvo C70
To start off, 2007 Volvo C70 is newer by 35 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), 2007 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C70 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C70 weights approximately 481 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, 2007 Volvo C70, 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, 2007 Volvo C70 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2007 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1711 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
