1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1979 Bitter SC
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Bitter SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Bitter SC would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Bitter SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Bitter SC (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Bitter SC should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 298 kg more than 1979 Bitter SC.
Because 1979 Bitter SC 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 1979 Bitter SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Bitter SC. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Bitter SC. 1979 Bitter SC has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Bitter SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1979 Bitter SC | |
| Make | Volvo | Bitter |
| Model | S80 | SC |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2690 mm |
