1999 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1999 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 178 kg more than 1999 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 320 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 1999 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30, 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, 2009 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 320 | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
