2004 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 7 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 88 more horse power than 2011 Volvo S80. (240 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 157 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, 2011 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, 2004 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo S80. (320 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1494 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2835 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
