1992 Volvo 480 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 480. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 552 kg more than 1992 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Volvo 480 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 480 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
