1993 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW M3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 BMW M3 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 1993 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1993 BMW M3 (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1993 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1993 BMW M3 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | S40 |
Year Released | 1993 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 281 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 321 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |