2007 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 26 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| 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 |
