1998 BMW 317 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 317 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
