1996 BMW 545 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 BMW 545. (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 545. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 172 kg more than 1996 BMW 545. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 545. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 440 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 545 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 545 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 545 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 545 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1862 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2835 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
