1978 BMW 725 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 1978 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (280 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 725 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 725 | V50 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |