2009 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 318 (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
