2008 BMW 330 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 540 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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 330 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
