1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
