1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 2.8 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 2.8 | 480 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 295 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1040 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |