2006 BMW 330 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 BMW 330 is newer by 16 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 330 (201 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 330 weights approximately 675 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 2006 BMW 330 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 330. 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, 2006 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 330 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
