2008 BMW 523 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 450 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 523 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 523. 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 523 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
