2008 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 11 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 2,383 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. 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 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | C70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
