1981 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 317 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60, 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2005 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | S60 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2319 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1537 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |