2008 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 11 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), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 120 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 BMW 525 (251 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
