1996 Volvo V70 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V70 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V70. (193 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1996 Volvo V70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 325 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 2011 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V70, 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, 1996 Volvo V70 (275 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 325. (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V70 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V70 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
