1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 35 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
