1990 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 520 (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V50. (133 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 87 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 520 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 1990 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50, 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 520 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | V50 |
Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 133 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1455 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |