2005 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2005 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:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 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 | 280 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
