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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 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 645 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 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
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 | 1870 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2810 mm |
