1998 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | 480 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |