Volvo S80 Review
| Ratings |
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| Overall: |
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| Performance: |
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| Comments |
Favorite feature: |
The combination of power and safety |
Least favorite feature: |
The fact that the S-80 is a front wheel drive car |
Advice to buyer: |
Test drive other cars in the same price category |
Detailed review: |
Given the price of the fully loaded T-6 as hovering around the $43,000 mark, it seems only fair to compare this car to the likes of the BMW 528. The S-80 is a front wheel drive car, whereas the BMW 528 is a rear wheel drive vehicle. Try as Volvo might, the performance and driveability of the T-6 can't really compare to the exquisite balance and maneuverability of the BMW. On the other hand, the 528 is woefully underpowered at 190 horses when compared to the 268 of the twin turbo T-6. The BMW 540 at about $10,000 more than the fully equipped T-6 is a superior performer, but what else would you expect for the extra $10,000?Safety is outstanding on the S-80 Although the BMW was the first manufacturer to inlcude a head protection system in their cars, Volvo has taken the concept a step further and included a 'curtain' which sandwiches between both the front and rear passengers and the side window area in a side impact. Volvo has something else that the BMW does not have when it comes to safety, a whiplash protection system, or WHIPS, as Volvo calls it. In a rear impact the seats actually lever back and slide back, reducing the forces, according to Volvo, by about 50%. BMW does not have this feature. Both cars have rated 5 stars from the Insurance Insitute for Highway Safety. The styling of the Volvo is not quite as exclusive as the BMW. The Volvo has lights from the rear that reminds virtually everybody of the Honda Prelude. As we all know, however, looks are a matter of taste. The T-6 has a 'Geartronic' shifting system, something 528 does not have. This automatic transmission allows for the manual shifting of gears, if the driver decides that he/she wants to shift. Both the BMW and Volvo have a six cylinder power plant. The T-6 has a low pressured twin turbo which really adds a lot of seamless low and high end torque. Both cars have all the whistles and bells you would expect that make both a pleasure to drive. So what is my pick? I have to choose the Volvo due to the overall package for the price. BMW is great, but the only true comparison to the T-6 is the 540, not the 528, and that car is another $10,000. |
Also considered: |
1999 BMW 528
1999 BMW 540
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| About This Reviewer... |
Name: |
Trissa Howie |
Email address: |
Naplegales@aol.com |
Location: |
La Jolla, California |
Other vehicles owned: |
1997 Acura Not Specified
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Review submitted: |
December 22, 1998 |
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