1974 BMW 518 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 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 210 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 | 1240 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
