1988 BMW 535 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 291 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 535 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
