2007 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 440, 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, 2007 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 318 | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
