1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 16 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), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (227 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW 3 Series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 BMW 3 Series.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S70 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.7 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 61 L |
