2004 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 104 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
