1999 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 BMW 1 Series
To start off, 2012 BMW 1 Series is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 1 Series (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 1 Series should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 1 Series weights approximately 345 kg more than 1999 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 1 Series 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 2012 BMW 1 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2012 BMW 1 Series (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 1 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Volvo S40 | 2012 BMW 1 Series | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | S40 | 1 Series |
Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 335 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 143 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 53 L |