1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 Volvo C30
To start off, 2013 Volvo C30 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo C30 (224 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2013 Volvo C30.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volvo C30 (320 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2013 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2013 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4266 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2039 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1447 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
