1998 BMW 325 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1998 BMW 325.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 325 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 325 | S40 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |