1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 15 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) has 40 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC90. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 855 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 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 |
