1972 BMW 3 vs. 1988 Volvo 240
To start off, 1988 Volvo 240 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1988 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1988 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | 240 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |