1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2012 BMW 128
To start off, 2012 BMW 128 is newer by 15 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 68 kg more than 2012 BMW 128.
Because 2012 BMW 128 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 2012 BMW 128. 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, 2012 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (171 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 128 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 128 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 2012 BMW 128 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S70 | 128 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4374 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 53 L |
