2009 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 12 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 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
