1998 BMW 325 vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo S80 (268 HP) has 154 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo S80 weights approximately 67 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2001 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
