1996 BMW 325 vs. 2007 Volvo S60
To start off, 2007 Volvo S60 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S60 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S60 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60, 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, 2007 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325. 2007 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 2007 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
