2011 BMW 1 Series vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 BMW 1 Series. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 BMW 1 Series would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S60 weights approximately 84 kg more than 2011 BMW 1 Series.
Because 2011 BMW 1 Series 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 2011 BMW 1 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60, 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, 2012 Volvo S60 (3,200 Nm) has 2750 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 1 Series. (450 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 1 Series. 2012 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 1 Series has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 1 Series will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 BMW 1 Series | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 1 Series | S60 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 3200 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4374 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1803 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2659 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 67 L |
