1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 132 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
