2009 BMW 730 vs. 1987 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 BMW 730 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 730 (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 730 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1987 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 730 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 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 730 (540 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 480. 2009 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1987 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1987 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 730 | 1987 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 730 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2510 mm |
