1996 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (242 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2003 Volvo C70.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 240 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 | 1563 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
