1999 Volvo S80 vs. 2011 BMW 325

To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 12 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 5 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 2011 BMW 325 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 BMW 325. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80. 2011 BMW 325 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. 2011 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Volvo S80 2011 BMW 325
Make Volvo BMW
Model S80 325
Year Released 1999 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2435 cc 2494 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 220 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1495 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 63 L