2009 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. 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 318 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (267 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
