2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1997 Volvo C70. (190 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo C70. (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo C70. 1997 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | C70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
