1983 Volvo 240 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volvo 240 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 240 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
