2009 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
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 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 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 28 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 540 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 320 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 320. 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 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
