1995 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2011 Volvo XC90. (240 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1995 BMW M3.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2011 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW M3 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
