1987 BMW 324 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1987 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 324 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 324. 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 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 324. (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 324. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 BMW 324 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 324 | S40 |
Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 214 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1500 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 |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |