1988 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC70 is newer by 20 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC70 (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo XC70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 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, 2008 Volvo XC70 (542 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo XC70 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo XC70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
