1985 BMW 324 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 393 kg more than 1985 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40, 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 324 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
