1972 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (236 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 382 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | S70 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2434 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 236 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1652 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |