1984 BMW 323 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 BMW 323 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1984 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1984 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 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 |
