2005 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2005 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30, 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, 2005 BMW 320 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo C30. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo C30.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
