1998 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1998 BMW 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
