1983 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 292 kg more than 1983 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 323 | S40 |
Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 205 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1419 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |