1975 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 37 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 314 kg more than 1975 BMW 520.
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, 2012 Volvo S80, 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520. 2012 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1975 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1975 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
