1973 BMW 2004 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 2004. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 2004 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 BMW 2004 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1973 BMW 2004. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 2004. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 431 kg more than 1973 BMW 2004. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 2004 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 1973 BMW 2004. 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 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 2004. (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 2004.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 2004 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
