1997 BMW S3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, both 1997 BMW S3 and 1997 Volvo S70 were released in the same year (1997). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (190 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 12 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (267 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | S3 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
