1998 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC70 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 374 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Volvo XC70, 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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2011 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2011 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1808 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1603 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2814 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
