1996 BMW 332 vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2002 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2002 Volvo S80. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2002 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volvo S80. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volvo S80. 2002 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 332 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
