1996 BMW 535 vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2001 Volvo S80. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2001 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volvo S80 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2001 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 535 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
