2006 Volvo V70 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo V70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo V70 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V70. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V70.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V70, 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 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V70. (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo V70 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V70 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2442 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
