1960 BMW 700 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Volvo S40 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1960 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1960 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 993 kg more than 1960 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 BMW 700 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 1960 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40, 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 BMW 700 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 700 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2570 mm |
