2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (217 HP) has 28 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
