1984 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 1996 Volvo 440 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 318 (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 440 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1984 BMW 318.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1984 BMW 318 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
