1982 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Volvo V70

To start off, 2001 Volvo V70 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo V70 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1982 BMW 318. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo V70 weights approximately 564 kg more than 1982 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 BMW 318 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 1982 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volvo V70 (350 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 318. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

1982 BMW 318 2001 Volvo V70
Make BMW Volvo
Model 318 V70
Year Released 1982 2001
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1765 cc 2521 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 89 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 93.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1584 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L