1997 Volvo C70 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Volvo C70. (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2011 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70, 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 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo C70 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Volvo | Lexus |
| Model | C70 | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
