1972 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Volvo V70
To start off, 2007 Volvo V70 is newer by 35 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Volvo V70. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V70 weights approximately 273 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 2007 Volvo V70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V70 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, 2007 Volvo V70 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2007 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
