1998 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Volvo S80

To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (167 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1998 BMW 320.

Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 2004 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 320 S80
Year Released 1998 2004
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2169 cc 2401 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 93.2 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 9.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1617 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L