2008 BMW X3 vs. 1980 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 240. (152 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1980 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 240. (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 240. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1980 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1980 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
