1988 BMW 524 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V50 (219 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 96 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 2007 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 524. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 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 V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 524 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
