2006 BMW 325 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
Because 2006 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 325 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
