1984 BMW 323 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 24 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 411 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. 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, 2008 Volvo S60, 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 220 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 | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
