1981 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 27 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 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 213 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, 2008 Volvo S40, 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 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 | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1433 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |