1990 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 320 (115 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2012 Volvo S80. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 373 kg more than 1990 BMW 320.
Because 1990 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (270 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 320. (224 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 320. 2012 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 320 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1609 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 |
