1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3.3. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3.3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3.3. (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.3. 1973 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2007 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3.3 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3.3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 58 L |
