2006 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 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 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 318 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 318. 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 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 318 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| 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 | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.2 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 | 1555 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
