2008 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Volvo 140
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 140 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 @ 4900 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 140.
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 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1974 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 140 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
