1973 Volvo 1800 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1973 Volvo 1800. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (271 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 1800. (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volvo 1800 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2770 mm |
