1984 BMW 316 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 1991 Volvo 480 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,767 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 480 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1984 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
