1990 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Volvo S80

To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 679 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.

Because 2011 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80 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, 2011 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2011 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2011 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 316 S80
Year Released 1990 2011
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 0 HP
Torque 141 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1759 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4628 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1864 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1483 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2776 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 67 L