2006 BMW 120 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 BMW 120 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2006 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 120 weights approximately 379 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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, 2003 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 120 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 120 | S40 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 331 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
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 | 1456 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |