2006 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Volvo S60
To start off, 2009 Volvo S60 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S60. (258 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo S60.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S60, 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S60. (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S60. 2009 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2009 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 258 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
