2009 BMW 530 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2009 BMW 530 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (110 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 226 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 530 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 530. 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 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 530 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 530 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1054 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
