1988 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 is newer by 20 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), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V70. (168 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 187 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, 2008 Volvo V70, 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 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 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1483 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
