2005 BMW X3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X3 (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 BMW X3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
