1981 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 30 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, 2011 Volvo S80 (217 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 479 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 2011 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80 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, 2011 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2011 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 525 | S80 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2400 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 |
Torque | 215 Nm | 440 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1759 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1864 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1483 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2776 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |