1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (110 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 201 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 460 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 460 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | Z3 | 460 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1054 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |