1988 BMW 524 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 524 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 524 | S40 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |