1994 Volvo 480 vs. 2010 BMW 118
To start off, 2010 BMW 118 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 118 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1994 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 118 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 2010 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2010 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volvo 480 | 2010 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 480 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2660 mm |
