2001 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volvo S60

To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (179 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. 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 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2005 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 318 2005 Volvo S60
Make BMW Volvo
Model 318 S60
Year Released 2001 2005
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 116 HP 179 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 77 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1440 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 2870 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L