2008 BMW 316 vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 1800 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 176 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
