1972 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Volvo S80
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S80 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S80 weights approximately 142 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 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, 2007 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2007 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. 2007 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2007 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| 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 | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 9.3 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 | 1587 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
