1990 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo S80 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
