2001 BMW 320 vs. 2007 Volvo C30

To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 6 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 228 kg more than 2007 Volvo C30.

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, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 320 2007 Volvo C30
Make BMW Volvo
Model 320 C30
Year Released 2001 2007
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 2521 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 93.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 222 km/hour 240 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1656 kg 1428 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L