1972 Volvo 1800 vs. 2011 BMW 528
To start off, 2011 BMW 528 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 528 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 528 weights approximately 540 kg more than 1972 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 BMW 528 (311 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 1800. (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo 1800 | 2011 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 528 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2969 mm |
