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 2,921 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (193 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
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 | 1951 cc | 2921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 8.9 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 | 1476 kg | 1534 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
