2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 3 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) has 229 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC90. (185 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 835 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2012 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, 2012 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo XC90. (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo XC90.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
