1987 BMW 324 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 18 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 165 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 324. (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 324. 2005 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. 2005 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 324 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.2 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 | 1425 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 |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
