2007 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Volvo S70

To start off, 2007 BMW 525 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 525. 2007 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 525 1997 Volvo S70
Make BMW Volvo
Model 525 S70
Year Released 2007 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 2460 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 290 Nm
Torque RPM 2900 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 20.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1375 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 68 L