2004 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S80. (268 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
