1992 BMW 538 vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 20 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 101 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC90. (240 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1992 BMW 538.
Because 2012 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, 2012 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, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo XC90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 538 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1783 mm |
