1971 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 33 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, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S60. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 121 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S60. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S60.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
