1981 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 525 | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1419 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |