2003 Volvo S40 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 46 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Volvo S40 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | S40 | Z3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 229 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 166 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 89.6 mm |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1451 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |