1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Volvo S60

To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 34 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S60. (168 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 190 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (331 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2005 Volvo S60
Make BMW Volvo
Model 3 S60
Year Released 1971 2005
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2383 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 180 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 255 Nm 331 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 93.2 mm
Top Speed 211 km/hour 210 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1570 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2760 mm