2009 BMW 325 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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 325 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 325 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 325 | 240 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2314 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |