1989 BMW 518 vs. 1999 Volvo V70
To start off, 1999 Volvo V70 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,318 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo V70 (236 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo V70 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo V70, 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, 1999 Volvo V70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 1999 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2318 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
