1978 BMW M1 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 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 M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M1 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 62 L |
