1990 BMW 316 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
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 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 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 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
