1983 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 25 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, both vehicles can yield 123 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1983 BMW 525.
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, 2008 Volvo V50, 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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
