1986 BMW 316 vs. 1973 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1986 BMW 316 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volvo 1800 (96 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1973 Volvo 1800 (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1973 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 96 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
