2003 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2004 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (221 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2004 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
