1973 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Volvo V50
To start off, 2011 Volvo V50 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo V50 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1973 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525. 2011 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 525 | 2011 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 525 | V50 |
Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 208 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1598 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4521 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1499 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |