2003 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S40. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2009 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, 2009 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 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 520 | S40 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1460 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 13 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |