2002 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 BMW Z4 is newer by 21 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 16 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW Z4 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | Z4 | 240 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 23.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |