1998 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Volvo C70
To start off, 2001 Volvo C70 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo C70 (161 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo C70 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volvo C70, 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, 2001 Volvo C70 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2001 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
