2008 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Volvo C70

To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2002 Volvo C70. (162 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2002 Volvo C70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2002 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 2002 Volvo C70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 523 2002 Volvo C70
Make BMW Volvo
Model 523 C70
Year Released 2008 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2496 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 77 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 68 L