1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 137 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 2011 BMW 520 (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (171 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volvo S70 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | S70 | 520 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |