1997 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1997 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 318 | V40 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1731 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |