2001 BMW 325 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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 325 weights approximately 234 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2001 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 325 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
