1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S80. (134 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
