2005 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2011 Volvo S40. (227 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 176 kg more than 2011 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo S40. (320 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW M3 | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | S40 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 320 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 337 Nm | 320 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1514 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4475 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |