2003 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1996 Volvo S80.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S80. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW 330 (400 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S80. (380 Nm). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S80. 1996 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 330 | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
