2006 BMW X3 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 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 X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 925 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 X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Volvo 480. 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
