2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (236 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1652 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
