1986 BMW 735 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 735. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 735 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 735 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 BMW 735. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 735. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 735 weights approximately 267 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1986 BMW 735 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 1986 BMW 735. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 735. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 735.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 735 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 735 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
