1988 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 194 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. 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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
