1988 BMW 524 vs. 2007 Volvo S80
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 is newer by 19 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, 2007 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S80 weights approximately 175 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 524 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1530 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 |
