2003 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC70. (240 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 496 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, 2012 Volvo XC70, 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 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo XC70. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo XC70. 2012 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | XC70 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1881 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4838 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1862 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1604 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2815 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 17.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |