1996 BMW 535 vs. 2006 Volvo S80

To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 10 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 107 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.

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, 2006 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 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S80. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S80.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 535 2006 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 535 S80
Year Released 1996 2006
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 128 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 280 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 200 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1610 kg 1616 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2800 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L