2004 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 4 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
