2003 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 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 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (311 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 182 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2009 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. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
