2003 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (217 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 59 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 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
