2008 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Volvo 460
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 460. (82 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1996 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 460. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1996 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
