2003 BMW 730 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2003 BMW 730 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 730 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (178 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 730 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1998 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 730 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 2003 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2003 BMW 730 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80. 2003 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 730 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 730 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
