1989 Volvo 480 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Volvo 480 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | 480 | 318 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |