1984 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
