2006 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 226 kg more than 2012 Volvo S80.
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, 2012 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo S80. (240 Nm). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo S80. 2012 Volvo S80 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. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
