1998 BMW 323 vs. 2000 Volvo S60
To start off, 2000 Volvo S60 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S60 (246 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 119 kg more than 2000 Volvo S60.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2000 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
