1999 Volvo S80 vs. 2005 BMW Z4
To start off, 2005 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 BMW Z4.
Because 2005 BMW Z4 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 2005 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW Z4. 2005 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volvo S80 | 2005 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S80 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
