2006 BMW 525 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480.
Because 2006 BMW 525 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 2006 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480, 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, 2006 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
