2004 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Volvo C70

To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo C70 (236 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 325 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1997 Volvo C70.

Because 2004 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70, 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 C70 (330 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 325.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 325 1997 Volvo C70
Make BMW Volvo
Model 325 C70
Year Released 2004 1997
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2319 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 236 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.5:1
Top Speed 237 km/hour 249 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1548 kg 1490 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 68 L