1992 BMW 538 vs. 2006 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2006 Volvo XC90 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2006 Volvo XC90. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1992 BMW 538.
Because 2006 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 538. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 2006 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 538 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
