1971 BMW 3 vs. 2000 Volvo S40
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S40 (190 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2000 Volvo S40.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (298 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2000 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
