2009 BMW 120 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 199 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
