2008 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2002 Volvo S60. (295 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 204 kg more than 2002 Volvo S60. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 2002 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2002 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
