2008 BMW 118 vs. 1989 Volvo 460

To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 284 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 118 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 2008 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 2008 BMW 118 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 118 1989 Volvo 460
Make BMW Volvo
Model 118 460
Year Released 2008 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1721 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 83.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 8.1:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.7 seconds 9.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1056 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 60 L