2008 BMW M3 vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP) has 272 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
