1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2012 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 320. 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 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 320. (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S70 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 57 L |
