2006 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 318 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1991 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 318 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 2006 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2006 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 318 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
