1972 BMW 520 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 41 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 692 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, 2013 Volvo XC90, 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, 2013 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 96 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2137 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2857 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.3 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
