1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 37 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, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 36 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | S40 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
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 | 1344 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 62 L |