1990 Volvo 480 vs. 2012 BMW 740
To start off, 2012 BMW 740 is newer by 22 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 740 (315 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 740 weights approximately 1010 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 2012 BMW 740 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 2012 BMW 740. 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, 2012 BMW 740 (447 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2012 BMW 740 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. 2012 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 480 | 2012 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 480 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5215 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 82 L |
