1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Volvo 480 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | 480 | 320 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 72 mm |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2730 mm |