2003 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volvo S40

To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.

Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (240 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 520 2004 Volvo S40
Make BMW Volvo
Model 520 S40
Year Released 2003 2004
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1950 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 167 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 240 Nm
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 89 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 1255 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption 7.7 L/100km 8.3 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 13 L/100km 10.8 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.7 L/100km 9.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L


 

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