1990 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo C70
To start off, 2008 Volvo C70 is newer by 18 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C70 (197 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C70 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1657 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
