1999 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Volvo S60

To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 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 1999 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 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 323 2005 Volvo S60
Make BMW Volvo
Model 323 S60
Year Released 1999 2005
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2318 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 247 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.5:1
Top Speed 201 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1457 kg 1537 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L