2004 Volvo S40 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 216 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2013 BMW 3 Series has manual transmission. 2013 BMW 3 Series will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S40 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S40 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1399 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
