1990 Volvo 480 vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2008 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 480 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 480 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
