2009 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volvo C30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volvo C30 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 280 more horse power than 2007 Volvo C30. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 101 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, 2007 Volvo C30, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo C30. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo C30.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2007 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1421 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
