1999 Volvo S80 vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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, 2010 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 120 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volvo S80 | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S80 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
