1959 BMW 700 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 767 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 1959 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (311 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 700 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1984 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2720 mm |
