1998 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 8 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 89 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, 2006 Volvo S60, 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2006 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1534 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
