2005 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 520 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 520 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 520 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
