1998 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (240 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
