1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 2000 Volvo S40
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S40 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 BMW 3.3. (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 119 kg more than 2000 Volvo S40.
Because 1976 BMW 3.3 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 1976 BMW 3.3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 BMW 3.3. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 BMW 3.3. 1976 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2000 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2000 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 2000 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3.3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 60 L |
