1978 BMW 725 vs. 2011 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC70 is newer by 33 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2011 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2011 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 725 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2815 mm |
