2005 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 8 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (220 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
