1988 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 16 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), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 334 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 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| 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 | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
