2008 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 216 kg more than 2008 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2012 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 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:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1494 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2835 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
