1992 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1992 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volvo S80, 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 520 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1494 mm |
