2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 18 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 568 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 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
