1998 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 122 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
