1983 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 460 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1983 BMW 320.
Because 1983 BMW 320 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 1983 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 1989 Volvo 460 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 320. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 320 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
