1975 BMW 520 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1990 Volvo 480 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 BMW 520 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480, 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, 1975 BMW 520 (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
1975 BMW 520 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | 480 |
Year Released | 1975 | 1990 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |