2003 Alpina Roadster vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alpina Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alpina Roadster would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina Roadster (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 222 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina Roadster 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 2003 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (340 Nm). This means 2003 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina Roadster | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | Roadster | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
