2004 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 585 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4. 2012 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW Z4 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:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
