2009 BMW 120 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 BMW 120.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
