1998 BMW 320 vs. 2007 Volvo S80
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
