1979 BMW 725 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 25 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1979 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 BMW 725.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 725 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2800 mm |
