2008 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Volvo S80

To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 10 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 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 149 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 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 (291 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318. 1998 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 318 1998 Volvo S80
Make BMW Volvo
Model 318 S80
Year Released 2008 1998
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2460 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 291 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 95.5 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.6 seconds 11.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1654 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 5.6 L/100km 12.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 80 L