1968 BMW 2002 vs. 2003 Volvo S40

To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1968 BMW 2002. (130 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1968 BMW 2002. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 399 kg more than 1968 BMW 2002. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1968 BMW 2002 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 1968 BMW 2002. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 BMW 2002. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 BMW 2002. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1968 BMW 2002 has manual transmission. 1968 BMW 2002 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 BMW 2002 2003 Volvo S40
Make BMW Volvo
Model 2002 S40
Year Released 1968 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 2523 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 130 HP 216 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 178 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 93.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 193 km/hour 235 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1026 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4240 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 46 L 62 L