2008 BMW X3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 740 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 X3 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 X3. 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
