1980 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW 316 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 1980 BMW 316. 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 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 316 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
