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, 2005 Volvo S60 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 309 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 2005 Volvo S60 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, 2005 Volvo S60 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 145 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 | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
