1996 BMW 725 vs. 1992 Volvo 480

To start off, 1996 BMW 725 is newer by 4 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 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 725 (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 480. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 747 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 1996 BMW 725 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 1996 BMW 725. 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, 1996 BMW 725 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 480.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 725 1992 Volvo 480
Make BMW Volvo
Model 725 480
Year Released 1996 1992
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2498 cc 1721 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 102 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 3900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83 mm 83.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 22.0:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1785 kg 1038 kg
Vehicle Length 5130 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2510 mm