1998 BMW 316 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 1989 Volvo 440 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
