2003 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 25 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 1978 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 66 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1550 mm |