2009 BMW X3 vs. 1990 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 366 kg more than 1990 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1990 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
