1999 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 323 | S40 |
Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |