2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volvo XC90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volvo XC90 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 217 more horse power than 2002 Volvo XC90. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 79 kg more than 2002 Volvo XC90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volvo XC90. 2002 Volvo XC90 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. 2002 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
