2004 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 7 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (162 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
