1988 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 525 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 525 | S40 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2441 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 239 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1451 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |