1974 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 107 kg more than 1974 BMW 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 1974 BMW 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2550 mm |
