2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
