1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 522 kg more than 1996 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
