2004 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 8 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 56 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, 2012 Volvo C30, 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
