1984 BMW 323 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 is newer by 5 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 28 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 BMW 323 weights approximately 34 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. 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, 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, 1984 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1984 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 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 |
