2006 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 BMW 120 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 120 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1997 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 120 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 2006 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2006 BMW 120 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 120 | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 120 | S40 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 331 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |