1996 BMW 523 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 91 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 523 | S40 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |