2008 BMW X5 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 1070 kg more than 1991 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X5 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
