2004 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Volvo S60
To start off, 2011 Volvo S60 is newer by 7 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S60 (200 HP) has 87 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S60 weights approximately 139 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, 2011 Volvo S60, 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, 2011 Volvo S60 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (355 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2011 Volvo S60 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. 2011 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2011 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
