2011 Volvo C70 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2011 Volvo C70 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo C70 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 BMW 523.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volvo C70 (400 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volvo C70 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | C70 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4582 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1836 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
