2003 BMW M3 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 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 159 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4650 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 72 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (139 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 240 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2315 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4650 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 139 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |