2009 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 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 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 290 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 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1988 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 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 | 148 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
