1996 BMW 535 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 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 17 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
Because 2006 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 535 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1625 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 |
