1998 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (280 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.2 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
