1972 BMW 3 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (178 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 314 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | S80 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 178 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1584 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |