1970 Rover 3.5 vs. 2006 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2006 Volvo XC70 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo XC70 (408 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1970 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1970 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1970 Rover 3.5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Rover 3.5 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 1970 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC70, 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, 2006 Volvo XC70 (541 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Rover 3.5. (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Rover 3.5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Rover 3.5 | 2006 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 3.5 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 541 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2770 mm |
