2006 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
