1996 BMW 535 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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 212 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 535. 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 535 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
