1987 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,507 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 432 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 1987 BMW 318. 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 (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1987 BMW 318 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 318 | S40 |
Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2507 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |