1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 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 1,950 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 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 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 225 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1500 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 |
