1999 BMW 323 vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 7 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, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S60. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1999 BMW 323.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 2006 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
