1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
