2003 BMW 320 vs. 1975 Volvo 240

To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1975 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, 2003 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 320 1975 Volvo 240
Make BMW Volvo
Model 320 240
Year Released 2003 1975
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1986 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 150 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2300 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2650 mm