1988 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Volvo S60
To start off, 2002 Volvo S60 is newer by 14 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), 2002 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S60 (295 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo S60 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2002 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2002 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| 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 | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 68 L |
