2008 Volvo C70 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Volvo C70 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Volvo C70. (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C70 weights approximately 203 kg more than 1999 BMW Z3.
Because 1999 BMW Z3 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 1999 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 320 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 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo C70 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | C70 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2520 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1598 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
