2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 5 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 Volvo S60.
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, 2008 Volvo S60, 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (240 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2008 Volvo S60 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. 2008 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 11.2 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 | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
