2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V70. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 Volvo V70. 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, 2008 Volvo V70, 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 V70 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | V70 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2435 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 | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
