1974 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 292 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 518 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 518 | S80 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2434 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1532 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |