2004 BMW 118 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2004 BMW 118 is newer by 15 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 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 118 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440.
Because 2004 BMW 118 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 2004 BMW 118. 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, 2004 BMW 118 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 118 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 118 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.2:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
