2009 BMW 120 vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo C70 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. 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, 1998 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, 1998 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | C70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 68 L |
