1988 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (118 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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 M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
