1980 Volvo 244 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 244. (136 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 497 kg more than 1980 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 244. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 244. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 244 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 244 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
