1978 BMW 730 vs. 2008 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC70 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC70 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1978 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo XC70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 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, 2008 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2008 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 730 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2770 mm |
