1978 BMW 730 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 730 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 730 | S40 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |