1978 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volvo XC60
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC60 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC60 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC60 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC60 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC60, 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 XC60 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2012 Volvo XC60 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2012 Volvo XC60 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | XC60 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1712 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2748 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 8.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |