2009 BMW 325 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 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 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (118 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 534 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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 325 (400 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
