1988 BMW 530 vs. 2004 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo C70 (197 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2004 Volvo C70.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 2004 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 530 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
