2006 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Volvo S80

To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2006 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 BMW 318 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 2006 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 318 1998 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 318 S80
Year Released 2006 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.3:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1560 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2800 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.4 L/100km 13.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L