1988 BMW 525 vs. 2013 Volvo XC60
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC60 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC60 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC60 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC60 weights approximately 331 kg more than 1988 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC60, 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, 2013 Volvo XC60 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2013 Volvo XC60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | XC60 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1791 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4627 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1891 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1713 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2774 mm |
