1996 BMW 725 vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2002 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2002 Volvo S80.
Because 1996 BMW 725 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 1996 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 725 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 725 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 725 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2720 mm |
