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, both vehicles can yield 167 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 57 kg more than 2003 BMW 520.
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 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 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 | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
