1992 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 520 weights approximately 69 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1992 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 1992 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 520 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
