2003 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 442 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
