1990 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Volvo V70

To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 is newer by 18 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, both vehicles can yield 185 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2008 Volvo V70.

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, 2008 Volvo V70, 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 525 2008 Volvo V70
Make BMW Volvo
Model 525 V70
Year Released 1990 2008
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 185 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 1850 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 77 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.5:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.2 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1482 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2760 mm