1977 BMW 732 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 732. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 732 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 732 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 732 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 732 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 732 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 BMW 732 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 1977 BMW 732. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 1977 BMW 732 (290 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 732 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 732 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 732 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
