2001 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
