1999 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 158 kg more than 1999 BMW 318.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1999 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (230 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
