1998 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (161 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
