1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C30 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 31 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo C30. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo C30. 2008 Volvo C30 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S70 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2460 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
