1996 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2012 Volvo C30.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30, 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 523 | C30 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1451 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4252 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1783 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1448 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |