1981 BMW 745 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1981 BMW 745.
Because 1981 BMW 745 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 1981 BMW 745. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S80. (281 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 745 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
