1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 13 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP) has 77 more horse power than 2011 Volvo S80. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 149 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, 2011 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 (280 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo S80. (270 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo S80. 2011 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. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2776 mm |
