2003 BMW 320 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 144 kg more than 2003 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 320 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | S40 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |