1978 BMW 725 vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 30 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 4,399 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 725 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 4399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
