2003 BMW X3 vs. 1990 Volvo 940
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 940. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 940 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 940. (111 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 940. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 466 kg more than 1990 Volvo 940. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 940. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 940. (157 Nm). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 940. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 940 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 940 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1990 Volvo 940 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 940 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
