1996 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo C70 (242 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo C70 weights approximately 69 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70, 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, 2004 Volvo C70 (330 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2004 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
