1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Volvo S60
To start off, 2009 Volvo S60 is newer by 11 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, 2009 Volvo S60 (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S60 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S60 (240 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
