1995 BMW 317 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (221 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 2004 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 317 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
