2003 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 247 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
