1990 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 171 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40, 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 525 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 525 | S40 |
Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 340 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1404 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |