1998 Volvo S80 vs. 2011 Alpina B5
To start off, 2011 Alpina B5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B5 weights approximately 383 kg more than 1998 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B5 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 2011 Alpina B5. 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, 2011 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80. 2011 Alpina B5 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. 2011 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 2011 Alpina B5 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alpina |
| Model | S80 | B5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1427 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
