1998 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC90 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, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Volvo XC90. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 603 kg more than 1998 BMW 323.
Because 2005 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2005 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. 2005 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2005 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | 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 | 168 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
