2003 BMW X3 vs. 1995 Volvo 960
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1995 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 Volvo 960. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 960. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1995 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1995 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1995 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
