1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Volvo XC90

To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 966 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2008 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2008 Volvo XC90
Make BMW Volvo
Model 316 XC90
Year Released 1990 2008
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2521 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 185 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 2046 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2870 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 72 L