2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 20 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
