1988 BMW 530 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 254 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 530 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 530 | S40 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 188 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 261 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1339 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |