2001 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 61 kg more than 2001 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 330 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
