1977 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (200 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520. 2005 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1977 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1977 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
