1979 BMW 633 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 633. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 633 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 633 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 633 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 633 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1979 BMW 633.
Because 1979 BMW 633 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 1979 BMW 633. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 633. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW 633.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 633 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 633 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
