1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 14 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 240 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.
Because 2011 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo S70. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S70 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
