1995 BMW S3 vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2009 Volvo XC90. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 356 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2009 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | S3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
