1988 BMW 524 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 1991 Volvo 480 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1991 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 524 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
