1973 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S60. (160 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 231 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S60. (231 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S60.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.7 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 | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
