1996 BMW 535 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2004 Volvo S80.
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, 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 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 535 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2916 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1657 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
