Thinking about buying a Volvo C30 T5 2.0? Compare it to a BMW 128i first!

 

The BMW 128i Overview

The 1 Series positions BMW's product offerings into a market segment where BMW has not had a presence in recent years. The 1 Series puts BMW squarely into competition with some models that haven't been considered BMW competitors before, and gives BMW a more favorable price point against some that were. Here's a field of key competitors for the two 1 Series Coupe models; click on the model for a brief analysis of how BMW's new compact Coupes stack up against each of their key rivals.

 

The Volvo C30 T5 2.0 Overview
The C30 parallels the 1 Series in that it's a smaller relative of Volvo's previously smallest car (S40), aiming at customers somewhat younger and less affluent than the brand's usual base. But it differs sharply from the 1 Series Coupe in that it's a hatchback, has front-wheel drive and is powered by a turbo 5-cylinder engine. Two models, 1.0 and 2.0, differ only in trim and features; the 2.0 starts at $26,445, $2,930 below the 128i Coupe. So it's aimed at a younger customer - yet the C30 doesn't match its admittedly strong style with youthful performance. "Young, less performance-oriented urbanites just may love it," wrote Motor Trend in 1/08. "The steering is numb, the shifter sloppy. The car rides well enough, but pays a penalty in terms of handling response. The 227-horse, turbocharged inline-5 engine drones out an industrio-mechanical fizz..."

BMW vs. Volvo C30 T5 2.0


What BMW offers…

  • Classic BMW Coupe sportiness and style
  • 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, 230 hp/200 lb-ft.; 0-60 mph 6.1 sec., 18/28 mpg MT; 0-60 6.7 sec., 19/28 mpg AT
  • Available automatic transmission is 6-speed, has shift paddles when combined with Sport Package
  • Optimal weight balance, approx. 49% F/51% R
  • 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes
  • 4-year/50,000-mile maintenance included

 

What Volvo doesn’t…

  • Hatchback design, not usually successful for premium brands
  • Turbo inline-5 engine, 2.5 liters, 227 hp( though 236 lb-ft.). 0-60 mph 6.2 sec. MT; 19/28 mpg MT, 19/27 AT. Lacks great sound of BMW's inline-6 engine.
  • Available automatic transmission is 5-speed; shift paddles not available
  • Very nose-heavy: 61% of weight on front wheels
  • Ventilated front disc brakes only
  • No included maintenance

 

 "We don't think it's going too far out on a limb to suggest that the 1 Series Coupe is the most complete car

in its class as far as performance and dynamics are concerned." - AutoWeek

Irvine BMW proudly serves Orange County - including Aliso Viejo, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, East Irvine, El Toro, Foothill Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, San Clemente, Lake Elsinore, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Juan Capistrano, Silverado and Trabuco Canyon.

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Posted vehicle images and descriptions on our website is representative to what is provided by our suppliers. Please note that the actual vehicle may slightly differ from its specifications and/or images. The Dealership is not responsible for any typographical, pricing, product specifications, advertising or shipping errors. Advertised prices and availability are subject to change without notice.

In the event a vehicle is posted at an incorrect price due to these errors, or if an error in pricing was received from our suppliers, the Dealership reserves the right to refuse and/or cancel these orders.

We will make our best efforts that posted prices are always accurate however, we are not responsible for any typographical or other errors that may appear on the site. If the posted price for a vehicle or service is incorrect due to a typographical or other error, such as data transmission, etc., this Dealership or Pixel Motion, Inc. are only responsible for the correct price, which will be provided as soon as we are made aware of such error(s). Ultimately, it is your responsibility to ensure that the information is 100% accurate with the Dealer.

Posted vehicle images and descriptions on our website is representative to what is provided by our suppliers. Please note that the actual vehicle may slightly differ from its specifications and/or images. The Dealership is not responsible for any typographical, pricing, product specifications, advertising or shipping errors. Advertised prices and availability are subject to change without notice.

In the event a vehicle is posted at an incorrect price due to these errors, or if an error in pricing was received from our suppliers, the Dealership reserves the right to refuse and/or cancel these orders.