1972 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 36 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 140 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, 2008 Volvo V50, 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
