1989 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,798 cc, 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1989 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 316 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 1989 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 316 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
