2009 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S60 (200 HP) has 25 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S60 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2009 BMW 523. 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, 2012 Volvo S60, 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 Volvo S60 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2012 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 523 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
