1989 Volvo 460 vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 22 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (110 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 471 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 2011 BMW 125 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 2011 BMW 125. 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, 2011 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 460 | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 460 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1054 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 53 L |
