2002 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2002 BMW 520 is newer by 5 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 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (236 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2002 BMW 520. (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 520 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 520 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1652 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
