1998 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 7 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 58 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2005 Volvo S60 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. 2005 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2318 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 247 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 | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
