2007 Volvo V70 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volvo V70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volvo V70 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V70 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 520.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V70, 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, 2012 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo V70. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo V70. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volvo V70 has manual transmission. 2007 Volvo V70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo V70 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V70 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
