2003 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo V40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 330 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
