1999 BMW Z9 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1999 BMW Z9 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z9 (242 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z9 weights approximately 574 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z9 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 Z9. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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 Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z9 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2510 mm |
