1996 BMW 530 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW 530. (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 530 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
Because 1996 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 530. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 530 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 530 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 68 L |
