1991 BMW 518 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1991 BMW 518 is newer by 3 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 518 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 1991 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 1991 BMW 518. 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 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW 518 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 518 | 480 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1062 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |