1996 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volvo S60
To start off, 2007 Volvo S60 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S60. (168 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2007 Volvo S60. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60, 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S60. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S60.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2007 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
