1997 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 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 129 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 240 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2314 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 185 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |