BMW M3 G80 vs Volvo S60 MK3
BMW M3
G80 · 2021 – 2026
The current M3 (G80), BMW’s high-performance saloon on the CLAR platform.
Volvo S60
MK3 · 2019 – 2026
The third-generation S60 (MK3), on the SPA platform.
BMW M3
Pick the G80 for the first M3 with optional M xDrive and a manual base variant — S58 pace with everyday saloon practicality.
Volvo S60
Pick the MK3 for a safe, refined premium saloon with an efficient B5 or quick T8.
Performance
M3 Competition · Petrol vs B5 2.0 250 · Petrol
| BMW M3 | Volvo S60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
510 hp
Winner
|
250 hp
|
| Torque |
650 Nm
Winner
|
350 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
3,9 s
Winner
|
6,5 s
|
| Top speed |
250 km/h
Winner
|
180 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
286,5 hp/t
Winner
|
148,8 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
230 g/km
|
150 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
10,5 L/100km
|
6,5 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW M3 | Volvo S60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
480 L
Winner
|
442 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.200 L
|
—
|
| Wheelbase |
2,86 m
|
2,87 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,79 m
|
4,76 m
|
| Ground clearance |
12,0 cm
|
12,8 cm
|
| Turning circle |
12,2 m
|
11,4 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
0 kg
|
2.000 kg
Winner
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW M3 | Volvo S60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (G80, rear-wheel drive or xDrive) | SPA (shared with the V60) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | S58 3.0 twin-turbo petrol | 2.0 T5/T6 petrol · 2.0 B4/B5 mild-hybrid · 2.0 T8 plug-in hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed Geartronic automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- Cooling-system plastics and electric water pump
- Oil-cooler or seal sweating (early cars)
- Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)
- Infotainment software and Sensus glitches
- 12V battery drain
- T8: ERAD and battery need monitoring
Pros
- Rear-wheel drive retains classic M balance
- xDrive versions are quicker and more secure in poor grip
- Usable rear seats and a 480 L boot for a performance saloon
- Refined interior and hushed comfort
- High safety
- Efficient mild-hybrids and quick T8
Cons
- Big and heavy (~1,705–1,940 kg)
- Firm ride, especially in stiffer settings
- Infotainment sometimes slow or glitchy
- Rear bench tight for three adults
- Not focused on sharp dynamics
Driving experience
BMW M3
Powerful, refined and highly capable. Steering is precise, body control is excellent and the car feels planted and engaging. Rear-drive versions retain classic M balance and playfulness; xDrive versions are more neutral, secure and quicker off the line. Adaptive M suspension offers a wide range between firm and acceptable comfort. The S58 is strong, free-revving and characterful with excellent mid-range and high-rev performance. The manual (base) is engaging; the ZF 8-speed (Competition) is quick and smooth. Overall a highly versatile high-performance saloon that balances dynamics with everyday usability better than many predecessors.
Volvo S60
Composed and secure for a premium sedan of its era, with light steering that suits motorway and urban driving. The ride is comfortable on standard wheels, and body roll is present yet managed. Petrol engines deliver responsive performance across the rev range. It prioritises comfort and safety over sharp dynamics, with good visibility.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
