1988 BMW M5 vs. 2005 Volvo S80

To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S80. (268 HP @ 1800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2005 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW M5 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 M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2005 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW M5 2005 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model M5 S80
Year Released 1988 2005
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3533 cc 2922 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 311 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 6900 RPM 1800 RPM
Torque 360 Nm 380 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.4 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 8.5:1
Top Speed 253 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.4 seconds 7.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1733 kg 1679 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9 L/100km 11.5 L/100km