1972 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 is newer by 36 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, 2008 Volvo V70 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 154 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, 2008 Volvo V70, 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, 2008 Volvo V70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | V70 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |