1998 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 5 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (206 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2003 Volvo C70 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. 2003 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
