2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1992 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1992 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1992 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
