1997 BMW M3 vs. 1969 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 1800. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1969 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 1800. (167 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1969 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
