1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 697 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 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, 2011 BMW X3 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2011 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo S40 | 2011 BMW X3 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | S40 | X3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1948 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1915 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4648 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1661 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2807 mm |