2012 Volvo XC70 vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW Z8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW Z8 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC70. (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 296 kg more than 2003 BMW Z8.
Because 2003 BMW Z8 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 2003 BMW Z8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70, 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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo XC70. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo XC70. 2012 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW Z8 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW Z8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volvo XC70 | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | XC70 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3200 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1881 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4838 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1862 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1604 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2815 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 21.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
