1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC70 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2011 Volvo XC70. (240 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo XC70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70, 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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2011 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1808 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1603 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2814 mm |
