1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 10 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 171 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
