1981 BMW 725 vs. 2003 Volvo V70
To start off, 2003 Volvo V70 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V70. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V70.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V70, 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 V70 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 725 | 2003 Volvo V70 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 725 | V70 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2760 mm |