1996 BMW 540 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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 540. 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S80. (221 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S80. 2004 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 540 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
