1971 BMW 3 vs. 2001 Volvo V70
To start off, 2001 Volvo V70 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo V70 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo V70 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volvo V70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volvo V70 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, 2001 Volvo V70 (292 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2001 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
