2009 BMW 523 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 10 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 115 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 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 523 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
