Japanese Car Zone - View Single Post - Edmunds Inside Line - Hardtop Convertible Comparison: 2006 Volvo C70 vs 2007 BMW 328i

Merc1 · 05-21-2007, 01:06 AM

Topping Off

There's not much to compare when it comes to the top mechanisms of either car. They're both completely automatic, so going from coupe to convertible requires nothing more than the push of a button. The BMW's top makes the switch in 22 seconds, the Volvo's in roughly 30.

What the Volvo's top lacks in speed, it makes up for in its compact size, as the C70 leaves more usable space in the trunk with its top down. It's not much, but it's more than the BMW's shoebox-size space.

It's no contest when it comes to interiors, however, as the BMW has a far richer-looking cabin with better materials. Between the seats, the trim and the classic appearance, the 328i justifies its price. There's nothing wrong with the design of the C70's interior, but there are too many cheap-looking plastics for a $40,000 car.

Both the BMW and the Volvo have tight-fitting rear seats that no one wants to spend much time in. Up front, the BMW feels a little more spacious thanks to some extra shoulder room, while the Volvo delivers a couple extra inches of legroom. Wind turbulence with the top down is well controlled in both cars, although the BMW includes a standard wind blocker to reduce it even further.

Unanimous Decision

If we awarded points for a winner in the most improved category, the C70 might have had a chance. It's such a huge step up from the last car that it should be called the C80. From the tight structure to the slick new roof, it's a convertible worth owning if you think driving fast is a waste of gas.

Slipping behind the wheel of the 328i, however, reminds us just how much better a convertible can get. It has a flex-free body and an equally impressive roof, but it also adds nearly perfect steering, nimble handling and an interior that will impress the neighbors.

That is, unless you live in Malibu.

2007 Hardtop Convertible Comparison Test: 2006 Volvo C70 vs. 2007 BMW 328i Convertible

M

05-21-2007, 01:06 AM	#1
Merc1 Contributor Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Aurora IL USA Posts: 7,272 Thanks: 1,561 Thanked 2,270 Times in 1,044 Posts	Edmunds Inside Line - Hardtop Convertible Comparison: 2006 Volvo C70 vs 2007 BMW 328i Topping Off There's not much to compare when it comes to the top mechanisms of either car. They're both completely automatic, so going from coupe to convertible requires nothing more than the push of a button. The BMW's top makes the switch in 22 seconds, the Volvo's in roughly 30. What the Volvo's top lacks in speed, it makes up for in its compact size, as the C70 leaves more usable space in the trunk with its top down. It's not much, but it's more than the BMW's shoebox-size space. It's no contest when it comes to interiors, however, as the BMW has a far richer-looking cabin with better materials. Between the seats, the trim and the classic appearance, the 328i justifies its price. There's nothing wrong with the design of the C70's interior, but there are too many cheap-looking plastics for a $40,000 car. Both the BMW and the Volvo have tight-fitting rear seats that no one wants to spend much time in. Up front, the BMW feels a little more spacious thanks to some extra shoulder room, while the Volvo delivers a couple extra inches of legroom. Wind turbulence with the top down is well controlled in both cars, although the BMW includes a standard wind blocker to reduce it even further. Unanimous Decision If we awarded points for a winner in the most improved category, the C70 might have had a chance. It's such a huge step up from the last car that it should be called the C80. From the tight structure to the slick new roof, it's a convertible worth owning if you think driving fast is a waste of gas. Slipping behind the wheel of the 328i, however, reminds us just how much better a convertible can get. It has a flex-free body and an equally impressive roof, but it also adds nearly perfect steering, nimble handling and an interior that will impress the neighbors. That is, unless you live in Malibu. 2007 Hardtop Convertible Comparison Test: 2006 Volvo C70 vs. 2007 BMW 328i Convertible M Last edited by Merc1; 05-21-2007 at 08:34 AM..