1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 37 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 52 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 236 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, 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 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | S80 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
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 | 1616 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2800 mm |