2002 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2002 BMW 320 is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 320 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 320 weights approximately 240 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 2002 BMW 320 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 2002 BMW 320. 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, 2002 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 320 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
