1998 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Volvo V40
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1997 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo V40, 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 325 (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 325 | 1997 Volvo V40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 325 | V40 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |