1972 Rover 3.5 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Rover 3.5. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2005 Volvo S80.
Because 1972 Rover 3.5 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 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Rover 3.5. (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Rover 3.5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Rover 3.5 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 3.5 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2670 mm |
