1999 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Volvo S80

To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 222 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 323 2005 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 323 S80
Year Released 1999 2005
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2492 cc 2922 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 380 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.5:1
Top Speed 206 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1457 kg 1679 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 80 L