2003 BMW 520 vs. 1963 Volvo 120
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1963 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
