1988 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Volvo C30
To start off, 2013 Volvo C30 is newer by 25 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo C30 (224 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo C30 weights approximately 257 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 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, 2013 Volvo C30, 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, 2013 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2013 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4266 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 2039 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1447 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
