1983 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
