1998 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 7 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S80. (134 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 220 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 2005 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
