2003 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Volvo V70
To start off, 2011 Volvo V70 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V70 (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V70, 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, 2011 Volvo V70 (236 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 320. 2011 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 2011 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | V70 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
