1988 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2004 Volvo S60.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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 S60 (340 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
