1989 Volvo 460 vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 92 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460. 2006 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 460 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 460 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 460 | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 460 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
