2001 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 66 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
