1998 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Volvo C70

To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Volvo C70. (161 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Volvo C70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo C70 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 2004 Volvo C70
Make BMW Volvo
Model 320 C70
Year Released 1998 2004
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2169 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 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 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 68 L