2009 BMW M3 vs. 1964 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 328 more horse power than 1964 Volvo 120. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1964 Volvo 120.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Volvo 120. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1964 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
