1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 163 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
