1994 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 1996 Volvo S80 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1994 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 520 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1996 Volvo S80.
Because 1994 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 1994 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 520 | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
