2005 BMW 320 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 15 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 425 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 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. 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, 2005 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
