2009 BMW 120 vs. 1988 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1988 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1988 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
