1995 BMW S3 vs. 1993 Volvo 480
To start off, 1995 BMW S3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1993 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 480. (144 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 1993 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | S3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
