2001 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 3 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (240 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
