1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volvo S60
To start off, 2011 Volvo S60 is newer by 14 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, 2011 Volvo S60 (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S60 weights approximately 469 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 2011 Volvo S60 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S60 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, 2011 Volvo S60 (440 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2011 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. 2011 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2011 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2776 mm |
