1997 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 237 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (340 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2005 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
