1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 41 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 71 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 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, 2012 Volvo C30, 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
