1999 BMW X5 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW X5 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
Because 1999 BMW X5 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 X5 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 X5 (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW X5 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X5 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2660 mm |
