1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 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 2,920 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2006 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2800 mm |
