1981 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 441 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 2008 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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 V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 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 V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | V50 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1661 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |