1985 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (160 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1985 BMW 325. (120 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 238 kg more than 1985 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 325 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 1985 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70, 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 1985 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1985 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 325 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
