1988 BMW Z1 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1.
Because 1988 BMW Z1 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 Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1988 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1988 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z1 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
