1988 BMW 524 vs. 2009 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 Volvo C70 is newer by 21 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 2,519 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C70 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524.
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, 2009 Volvo C70, 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, 2009 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2009 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 524 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 227 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 | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
