1978 Volvo 66 vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 496 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 BMW 125 (250 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 66 | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 66 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
