2003 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 318 | S40 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1433 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 | 62 L |