1979 BMW 725 vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2001 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volvo S80.
Because 1979 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 1979 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80, 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, 2001 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 725 | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 725 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2800 mm |
