1998 Volvo S80 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 14 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 228 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 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S80 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1427 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
