2004 BMW 316 vs. 1993 Volvo 480

To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1993 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 316 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 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 480.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 316 1993 Volvo 480
Make BMW Volvo
Model 316 480
Year Released 2004 1993
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1720 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 80 L