2006 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 320 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | S40 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1731 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |