1978 BMW M1 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S80. (168 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 232 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1. 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S80. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M1 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 70 L |
