1999 BMW 323 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
