2009 BMW 120 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
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 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 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 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 385 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 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 120 | 480 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1719 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |