1981 BMW 725 vs. 2005 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC90 is newer by 24 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo XC90 (208 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 2005 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC90 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, 2005 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2005 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 725 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
