2002 BMW 330 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 BMW 330. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 330 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2002 BMW 330 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 2002 BMW 330. 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, 2002 BMW 330 (421 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 330 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 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 |
