1972 BMW 3 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 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 59 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 190 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, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | S80 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2459 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
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 | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |