1999 BMW 330 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 330 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 330 | 240 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2127 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |