1998 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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 (380 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2005 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 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 323 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1679 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
