1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volvo V70
To start off, 2003 Volvo V70 is newer by 5 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 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V70 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V70 weights approximately 455 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 2003 Volvo V70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V70 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Volvo V70 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
