2001 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2001 BMW 318.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. 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 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW 318 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 318 | S40 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |