1990 BMW 518 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 777 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90, 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, 2013 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2137 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2857 mm |
