1990 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 21 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (200 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 613 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 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
