1972 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 36 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 409 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2008 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | S80 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2921 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1679 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |