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, 1990 BMW 525 (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V70. (168 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 6 kg more than 2008 Volvo V70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1990 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V70. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V70.

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 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.3:1
Top Speed 224 km/hour 220 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.2 seconds 9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1569 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2760 mm