1998 BMW 323 vs. 2002 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2002 Volvo XC90 is newer by 4 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, 1998 BMW 323 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Volvo XC90. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 684 kg more than 1998 BMW 323.
Because 2002 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 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, 2002 Volvo XC90 (351 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2002 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2002 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2114 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
