1998 BMW 318 vs. 1987 Volvo 240
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1987 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
