1996 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1996 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 316. 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316. 2012 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
