1988 BMW 524 vs. 1998 Volvo S80

To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 298 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 524 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 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 1998 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 524 1998 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 524 S80
Year Released 1988 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2493 cc 2922 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 22.0:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1355 kg 1653 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2800 mm


 

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