2008 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 11 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo S70. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1926 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 58 L |
