1991 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1991 BMW 325. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1991 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 BMW 325 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 1991 BMW 325. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 325. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW 325 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 325 | S40 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |