2009 BMW 135 vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 135 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 135. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 440, 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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 135 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
