2009 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo C30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo C30 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 206 more horse power than 2008 Volvo C30. (208 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 178 kg more than 2008 Volvo C30. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30, 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo C30. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo C30.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2519 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
