1991 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. 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 1991 BMW 518. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518. 2008 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 518 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:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
