1996 BMW 540 vs. 2000 Volvo V40
To start off, 2000 Volvo V40 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP) has 174 more horse power than 2000 Volvo V40. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2000 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volvo V40, 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Volvo V40. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Volvo V40. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2000 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 2000 Volvo V40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2000 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 540 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
