1990 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Volvo V50
To start off, 2011 Volvo V50 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo V50 weights approximately 23 kg more than 1990 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V50, 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, 2011 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525. 2011 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 525 | 2011 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4521 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1499 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
