2012 BMW 525 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 BMW 525. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 525.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90, 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 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volvo XC90. 2012 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volvo XC90 has manual transmission. 2013 Volvo XC90 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW 525 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4907 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1462 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2968 mm | 2857 mm |
