1988 BMW 524 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 17 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (161 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 112 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 524 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1467 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
