2009 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Volvo XC60
To start off, 2010 Volvo XC60 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 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 179 more horse power than 2010 Volvo XC60. (235 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volvo XC60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo XC60 weights approximately 435 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2010 Volvo XC60, 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volvo XC60. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volvo XC60. 2010 Volvo XC60 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. 2010 Volvo XC60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2010 Volvo XC60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC60 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1712 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2774 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
