1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 332 kg more than 1973 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volvo XC90 (441 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2009 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1602 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
