2004 BMW 120 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2004 BMW 120 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 120 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 120 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 120 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 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2004 BMW 120 (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 120 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| 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 | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
