2009 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 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 358 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 1978 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 66 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |