1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S80. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2009 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9 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 | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
