1989 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 is newer by 20 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 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 438 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, 2009 Volvo C30, 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 C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
