1971 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Volvo S80
To start off, 2013 Volvo S80 is newer by 42 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo S80 (296 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo S80 weights approximately 449 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Volvo S80 (441 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1829 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1861 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1493 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2835 mm |
