1992 BMW 540 vs. 2008 Volvo S40

To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.

Compare all specifications:

1992 BMW 540 2008 Volvo S40
Make BMW Volvo
Model 540 S40
Year Released 1992 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3980 cc 1798 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 282 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 191 Nm
Torque RPM 5100 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 90 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1650 kg 1355 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 60 L