1978 BMW 730 vs. 2004 Volvo V40
To start off, 2004 Volvo V40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V40. (169 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2004 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 730 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 1978 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40, 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, 2004 Volvo V40 (240 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2004 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 730 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
