2003 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (236 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | S70 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2434 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 236 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1652 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |