1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2800 mm |
