2003 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 10 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2013 Volvo XC90. (237 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 718 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90, 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, 2013 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2857 mm |
