1998 BMW 317 vs. 2005 Volvo V70
To start off, 2005 Volvo V70 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V70 (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V70 weights approximately 256 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70, 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, 2005 Volvo V70 (321 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2005 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 317 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1611 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
