1997 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2010 Volvo XC90 is newer by 13 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, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2010 Volvo XC90. (235 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 855 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2010 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2010 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2010 Volvo XC90 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. 2010 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2010 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
