1990 BMW 316 vs. 1988 Volvo 240

To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 240 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Volvo 240 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1988 Volvo 240
Make BMW Volvo
Model 316 240
Year Released 1990 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1986 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2660 mm